Darvin S. Dahlke

Darvin S. Dahlke, 90-year-old resident of Hillman, MN, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026 at the Mille Lacs Health System in Onamia, MN.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, February 5, 2026, with visitation starting at 9:30 AM at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Hillman, MN. Burial will be in the Immanuel Lutheran Cemetery. Caring for Darvin and his family is LeMieur Funeral Home in Pierz, MN

Darvin Dahlke, was born June 4, 1935, in New Auburn, MN. He left behind a legacy defined by faith, service, and unwavering devotion to family and community. Darvin grew up with strong values of hard work and responsibility, which he carried throughout his life. At the age of 11, Darvin moved with his family to Hillman, MN where his parents had purchased a dairy farm. He attended Milaca High School and later proudly served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1957, stationed in Germany. His years of military service reflected his deep sense of duty and commitment to his country. Following his service, he attended Minnesota School of Business and then Darvin began a 35 year career at C.H. Robinson, where he held many roles, including Vice President and Treasurer. It was there that he met his future wife, Janet, who worked as his file clerk/bookkeeper. Their playful courtship included charming Janet by Darvin tossing paper clips to get her attention. This eventually blossomed into a loving marriage in 1963. Together, they built a partnership marked by warmth, humor, and steadfast support. Darvin and Janet raised three children: Pamela, Rita, and Carmen. They were the center of his world. He cherished time spent with family and friends and found his greatest joy in the simple moments of togetherness. A man of deep faith, Darvin was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church and a strong supporter of the Lutheran Seminary. His faith guided his values and inspired his dedication to serving others. Darvin's commitment to service extended into the community as well. He was a member of the Eden Prairie Lions Club, and after retirement and moving to Hillman, he founded the Richardson Lions Club, serving as its Secretary and offering his leadership to improve the lives of others. He was also a proud member of the Hillman American Legion Post 602, continuing his lifelong dedication to honoring veterans and supporting his community. After retiring early, Darvin and Janet made their home on Lake Sullivan in the Hillman area, embracing the beauty of the outdoors and enjoyed many fabulous trips together. Darvin was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, and snowmobiling. During the winter months, he and Janet spent time in Gold Canyon, AZ. They welcomed family and friends with warmth, laughter, and hospitality into both their homes. He loved to challenge friends to a hand of cribbage - his favorite game that he played until his last days. Darvin will be remembered for his kindness, storytelling, strong sense of responsibility, unwavering faith, humor, and profound love for his family and community. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched and he will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Janet; his children, Pamela Dahlke, Rita (Jeff) Ruprecht, and Carmen (Monte) Goelz; his grandchildren, Tanner Ruprecht, Casey (Adam) Hippe, Torrey, and AJ Goelz; his great-grandchild, Kylar Hippe, who always brought a smile to his face; sister-in-law, Clarice Dahlke; brother-in- law, Norman Zabloski and many extended family members and dear friends.

Meeting Darvin in heaven, preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Selma Dahlke and his siblings, Ethel (Fredrick) Bauer, Earl (Janice) Dahlke, Kermit Dahlke, and Helen Zabloski.